5 Easy New Year’s Resolutions For Car Owners

New Year, New You! Just because you haven’t been properly caring for your vehicle in the past, doesn’t mean you can’t start today! Check out these easy New Year’s car care resolutions we’ve put together, just for you!

1.Schedule Regular Oil Changes.You’ve likely heard of the 5,000 mile rule before, but do you actually follow it? When it comes to the health of your car’s engine, nothing’s more important than maintaining its motor oil. As your vehicle runs, contaminants such as dirt will progressively ruin the oil, which can cause premature wear on your vehicle. Our recommendation is to change it once every 6 months or every 5,000 miles (whichever comes first).

2. Monitor the Condition and Pressure of Your TiresIncorporating this into your routine for 2017 will not only save you from untimely flats and punctures, but it could also save you from getting into a very serious accident! While under-inflated tires may seem like no big deal, studies show that under inflation takes a serious toll on your vehicle’s gas mileage. Poor gas mileage means spiked fuel costs – save yourself from this unnecessary expense with this easy resolution!

3. Regularly Inspect Your BrakesA car’s braking system is incredibly complex. From the fluid to the pads, every part of the system plays an important role and is essential to your safety! That’s why we believe in proper maintenance and upkeep. This New Year’s, resolve to have your brake system inspected on a regular basis. If you begin to hear squeals, screeches and high pitched noises when braking, don’t just ignore them! These are symptoms of a bigger problem and should be checked out by a professional as soon as possible!

4. Routinely Service Your VehicleWhile making a trip to your car dealership or mechanic may be a slight inconvenience to your routine, it could spare you and your vehicle from an unforeseen breakdown. Regular servicing will alert you of minor problems early on, saving you money and adding to the longevity of your vehicle! In fact, if you have thoughts about selling your car in the future, research shows that vehicle’s with evidence of regular servicing and/or full service history, attracts more potential buyers and a higher selling price. It’s a win-win!

5. Test Your Battery Bi-AnnuallyThis care care resolution is so quick and easy, you can do it yourself! Whether your vehicle is new or old, we’d recommend checking your car battery’s charge before, during and after winter. The cold temperatures of winter can have a negative impact on some car batteries, leading to a significant drop in its power output. Simply purchase a charge-checking device and hook it up to your battery. Alternatively, you can take it to a professional mechanic and get it checked out. While some may feel that this is unnecessary, we understand that cars break down at the most inconvenient times. That’s why we believe in precautionary measure like this!

Try out one of these easy car care resolutions this New Year’s, and let us know which one you’re sticking with! Should you find yourself in need of collision repair services while in the Bay Area, please give us a call and rest assured that you will receive quality repairs with the health and safety of everyone in mind.